The Day Saida Arrived

Written by Susana Gomez Redondo
Illustrated by Sonja Wimmer
Published by Blue Dot Kids Press

“Exploring and widening each other’s worlds through language and friendship, these girls are a model for promoting a culture of welcoming and belonging.”
—Abdelaziz Rhazzali, I’m Your Neighbor Books

What happens when a new friend arrives who doesn’t speak your language? A young girl searches for the words to help her friend feel welcome and happy in her new home, and along the way learns about differences and similarities in countries and words. The two forge a strong bond while they each learn the other’s language, exploring the world around them.

A joyous, lyrical text—including English translations and pronunciations and the complete Arabic alphabet—offers an accessible, fresh approach to talking about immigration. Paired with lushly vivid illustrations, The Day Saida Arrived demonstrates the power of language to build bonds beyond borders. Printed on FSC-certified paper with vegetable-based inks.